“Out of the Darkness” Walks Seek to Reduce Suicides

South Carolina Public Radio | By Tut Underwood

Published October 3, 2016 at 4:32 PM EDT

On average, about two people die by suicide each day in South Carolina, which is more than twice the state’s homicide rate. With its “Out of the Darkness” walks statewide in October and November, the S.C. chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is working to reduce that number through awareness and fundraising for research. In this report, we hear from South Carolina AFSP volunteers and staff who give us signs that might indicate a person is contemplating suicide, and learn of AFSP’s goal to reduce the suicide rate nationwide over the next decade. It’s important to remember, they say, that help is available and suicide is preventable.

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Tut Underwood

Tut Underwood is producer of South Carolina Focus, a weekly news feature. A native of Alabama, Tut graduated from Auburn University with a BA in Speech Communication. He worked in radio in his hometown before moving to Columbia where he received a Master of Mass Communications degree from the University of South Carolina, and worked for local radio while pursuing his degree. He also worked in television. He was employed as a public information specialist for USC, and became Director of Public Information and Marketing for the South Carolina State Museum. His hobbies include reading, listening to music in a variety of styles and collecting movies and old time radio programs.

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